An Independent human rights specialist, Muhammad Chande Osman, has revealed that the Southern Sudan government lacks the capacity to adequately protect it’s citizens’ human rights.
Muhammad Chande Osman made the revelation during a press interview in Juba, the regional capital of Southern Sudan. He said that southern Sudan’s capacity for human rights protection is weak.
“State authorities, are committed to protecting human rights but weak capacity has not provided a strong respect for rule of law,” says Mr. Osman.
His highly critical comments sought to bring the unconvincing judiciary system, which he said “leaves a lot to be desired”, to light. “In some areas courts are non-existent and in areas where courts do exist, these courts are under-resourced and ill-equipped. Prisons are also inadequate.”
According to him, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) in the south has undertaken police functions. He also added that he was aware of allegations of SPLA abuse of human rights as well.
Osman cited provisions in three laws that infringe on fundamental human rights and urged the government to amend them in accordance to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and Interim National Constitution. The three laws are: National Intelligence and Security Services Law, Criminal Procedure Law and Public Order Act.
Reports of allegations naming the national intelligence and security authorities being involved in arbitrary arrests and detentions have reached him. He believes that southern Sudan should do all it can to protect the human rights of its citizens.
Mr. Muhammad Chande Osman has commended efforts made by the government in collaboration with international partners to address the Darfur problem.
